The ependymal surface of the lateral ventricle of the dog as revealed by scanning electron microscopy

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Abstract
Young dogs were perfused with buffered aldehydes at fluid pressures approaching normal physiological values. Surface tissue from the temporal horns of the lateral ventricles were prepared for scanning electron microscopy, using postosmication, critical point drying and gold‐palladium coating.The ependymal surfaces are mostly ciliated but nonciliated areas occur along the medial walls. The latter areas are characterized by depressions, pores, fenestrations and a unique population of supraependymal cells. These polymorphic cells probably represent both conductive (neuronal) and supportive (neuroglial) elements. Adjacent to cilia‐free areas, transitional zones are observed. Here, a net‐like surface pattern consisting of smooth hexagonal cells is outlined by microvilli of varying lengths and isolated tufts of cilia are present.